What Is a Dark Match in WWE?

Have you ever wondered what a “dark match” is in the world of WWE? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we will dive deep into the world of professional wrestling and explore the concept of dark matches.

What is a Dark Match?

A dark match refers to a non-televised or unaired professional wrestling match that takes place before or after a live television broadcast. These matches are usually held to entertain the audience who attend the event in person. Unlike the matches that are televised, dark matches do not make it to air and are not included in the final broadcast.

Dark matches serve multiple purposes within the realm of professional wrestling. They can be used to warm up the crowd before a live show begins or keep them engaged during commercial breaks. Additionally, dark matches often feature up-and-coming talent or wrestlers who are not regularly featured on television, allowing them to showcase their skills and gain more experience.

The Significance of Dark Matches

While dark matches may not be seen by viewers at home, they play an essential role in enhancing the overall live experience for those attending the event. These matches are an opportunity for fans to see their favorite wrestlers in action up close and personal without any interruptions from commercials or television production requirements.

The atmosphere during a dark match is often more relaxed compared to televised bouts. Wrestlers may interact with fans more directly, engaging in playful banter or even taking requests for specific moves or taunts.

Dark Match Examples

To give you a better understanding of how dark matches work, let’s look at a couple of examples:

• Pre-show Dark Matches: Before major pay-per-view events such as WrestleMania or SummerSlam, WWE often holds dark matches to get the audience excited. These matches feature both established superstars and rising talent, setting the stage for the main event.

• Post-show Dark Matches: After the televised portion of an event concludes, WWE sometimes arranges dark matches as a treat for the live audience. These matches can feature surprise appearances or dream matchups that may not be possible on regular television programming.

In Conclusion

Dark matches are an integral part of the professional wrestling experience. While they may not be seen by viewers at home, they provide a unique opportunity for fans attending live events to witness additional matches and interactions with their favorite wrestlers.

So, next time you attend a WWE event or watch a pay-per-view, keep an eye out for those dark matches happening behind the scenes!